Civic Engagement Manager

Under the supervision of the Director, the Engage Arkansas Civic Engagement Manager leads statewide communications, outreach, and civic engagement strategies that promote the mission and programs of Engage Arkansas.

This position combines creativity, storytelling, and relationship-building, serving as the commission's chief storyteller. The Civic Engagement Manager captures and produces high-quality video, photo, and written content that highlight the impact of AmeriCorps members and community partners. They also oversee all other communications efforts, including social media, newsletters, press relations, and live appearances, ensuring a consistent and inspiring public presence for Engage Arkansas.

In addition to managing communications, this role leads several flagship initiatives, including National Days of Service, the Volunteer Community of the Year Awards, and the Civic Engagement Internship Program, mentoring emerging professionals in storytelling, media production, and community engagement.

Storytelling, Media & Communications

• Serve as the lead storyteller for Engage Arkansas, crafting narratives that showcase the power of national service and community engagement.
• Capture, edit, and produce high-quality video, photography, and digital content in the field for distribution across social media, web, and traditional media outlets.
• Manage Engage Arkansas’ social media storytelling strategy, including content planning, creation, posting, and analytics.
• Develop and implement an annual communications plan that integrates multimedia storytelling, press relations, newsletters, and events.
• Act as the public spokesperson and on-camera representative for Engage Arkansas in interviews, live television, and community events.
• Mentor and supervise interns in media production, communications strategy, and civic storytelling, providing hands-on learning and professional development opportunities.

AmeriCorps Sub-recipient Support

• Publicize all program-related materials, including AmeriCorps member policies, monthly newsletters, and training resources.
• Ensure compliance with EngageAR and AmeriCorps Headquarters communication policies and guidelines.
• Collaborate with the AmeriCorps Program Manager and Program Officers on statewide promotional and recruitment campaigns.
• Support planning and logistics for the annual opening ceremony, member retreat, and quarterly trainings.
• Serve as the liaison to the Arkansas AmeriCorps Alumni Association.

Program Development & Strategic Planning

• Develop innovative projects and community partnerships for National Days of Service, managing logistics and promotion.
• Oversee the mini-grant process for service projects and other volunteer initiatives.
• Support AmeriCorps recruitment events and annual Program Director training.
• Design and order promotional items for national service campaigns.
• Conduct annual communication audits of EngageAR AmeriCorps programs.

Civic Engagement Management

• Serve as the primary contact for community-based organizations, municipalities, and state agencies seeking volunteer engagement support.
• Lead the annual Community of the Year Awards in partnership with the Arkansas Municipal League.
• Develop statewide media campaigns supporting AmeriCorps and volunteerism.
• Maintain strong relationships with community partners, consultants, and media.
• Generate and track leads for AmeriCorps recruitment and statewide volunteer opportunities.
• Certify Presidential Volunteer Service Award applications.
  
  

Office & Communications Management

• Research, write, edit, and distribute reports, newsletters, articles, and other materials.
• Maintain the EngageAR website and volunteer portal.
• Develop and maintain EngageAR communications policies and procedures.
• Stay current on best practices in digital storytelling, community engagement, and social media trends.
• Represent Engage Arkansas on America Service Commission committees and professional networks.
• Support Commissioners by providing communications materials, training, and event coordination.
• Assist with media planning, public recognition events, and external engagements.

Other Duties

• Participate in all National Days of Service and recognition events.
• Perform related responsibilities as assigned.
• Some evening, weekend, and holiday work is required.
• Statewide and national travel required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, journalism, marketing, or related field. 3–5 years of experience in communications, public engagement, or media production.
• Excellent storytelling, writing, video production, and public speaking skills.
• Experience producing and editing digital content for social media and broadcast.
• Proficiency in communications tools (Canva, Hootsuite, Constant Contact, Zoom, MS Office Suite).
• Experience supervising or mentoring interns, students, or early-career professionals.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Charismatic communicator who enjoys meeting people and sharing their stories.
• Event planning and media relations experience preferred.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel statewide.